The Ike Carpenter Orchestra was heavily influenced by the sound and style of Duke Ellington, even recording a cover version of that band's signature tune, "Take the 'A' Train," as well as other material heavily associated with the Duke, such as his son Mercer Ellington's nostalgic composition entitled "Things Ain't What They Used to Be." Despite the assertion of some critics that the performances of Carpenter's bands lacked jazz content, excellent soloists were often showcased. The aforementioned version of "Take the 'A' Train," for example, highlights a fine tenor sax solo by Lucky Thompson.